2015/10/01/publishers-note-october-2015
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TRICKS, TREATS & CREEPY EATS 
 
 Halloween is almost here and The Kleivo’s could not be more excited. We love everything about it– the tricks, the treats and all things in between, except for maybe the creepy masked guy who runs around our neighborhood terrorizing children (and adults) while waving a running chainsaw in the air. For now, we’ll just file that one under ‘tricks’. Creepy, right?    Now let’s get to the good stuff– the treats. I’m no Betty Crocker but the more festive the cupcakes the better and these days you can find dessert confetti and toppings galore like never before which makes a mom’s job that much easier. (Phew!) Thanks to Pinterest, I’ve come across the creepiest Halloween cupcake list ever and would love to share it with you. Some recipes seem easy while others look a little bit more involved, but the kids will love them and that’s what it’s all about.    Pictured is the Autumn Tree, the least creepiest of the bunch, but there are many more to choose from including Brain Cupcakes, Graveyard Cupcakes, Jack Skellington Cupcakes and more– something creative for every level of gore.  Just visit our website and click to view. Send us a photo of your finished treats at editorial@glancermagazine.com for us to share in social media.    This issue is filled with lots of fall fun– from Autumn Happenings to Fright Fests throughout Chicagoland. It is also The Kitchen Issue. You’ll love reading about the latest tips and trends when it comes to kitchen redesign, space planning and getting your kitchen party-ready– just in time for the holidays. How perfect is that!?    Get baking, get planning and #HappyFall!   20 CREEPY HALLOWEEN CUPCAKE IDEAS:  http://www.viralnova.com/brain-cupcakes-please/  
 Lindy Kleivo 
 
 Founding Publisher 
 
 Celebrating 14 Years In West Suburban Publishing  A West Suburban Focus, Featuring Your Community 
  #PublishersNote

PUBLISHER'S NOTE | October 2015

TRICKS, TREATS & CREEPY EATS Halloween is almost here and The Kleivo’s could not be more excited. We love everything about it– the...

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Chicago's west suburban communities have countless fabulous families, all making a difference in the world around them in their own unique way. Each month we feature a few of them. Here are this month's featured fabulous families.   The Paulson Family  KANELAND – Not only is she the executive director of the Kaneland Arts Initiative (KAI) and the auditorium manager for Kaneland High School, she’s also an educational writer for a music software company…and a wife and mother. Maria Dripps-Paulson is one busy lady!   She and husband Tim, who is a project manager at Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI), moved to Sugar Grove in 1999 because she was offered the job as band director at Kaneland and Tim started his career at EEI. “Because the district was so large, we wanted to live inside it, due to long band director hours,” says Maria. “We absolutely love our location!”   Shortly after moving here, Maria and Tim decided to start a family and had Philip, who is now 12 years old and a 7th grader at Harter Middle School. Four years later, the Paulsons added to their family (in a big way!) and had triplets, Clara, Zoe and Naomi, who are 3rd graders at Blackberry Creek Elementary.     In their bustling home, it’s not surprising Maria has a motto of “Practice how you perform” and “Everything you do must make it better.” And in true Paulson family style, Philip, Clara, Zoe and Naomi are active kids involved in everything from church choir to running. “The Fox Valley Children’s Marathon had each child run 1 mile at a time this summer until they reach 25 miles,” explains Maria. “The last 1.2 miles was a group run event in St. Charles on marathon day.  As you can expect, Tim and I made great chauffeurs.” -Tiffany Schultz    Fun Facts:    Favorite Local Establishment: 
 
 Alice’s in Elburn is a family favorite – the kids are attempting to work their way through all of their ice cream offerings.   Best Family Vacation: 
 
 Every summer we create a summer bucket list for our “stay-cation.” We include such fun things as: joining the Sugar Grove Library summer reading program, indulging in a Raging Waves day and last but not least, a pajamas day where we stay in our pj’s all day and just relax!   On Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: 
 
 At Village Bible Church in our AWANA club (for us girls) and youth group for Philip.   Our Family is Very Passionate about: 
 
 Our faith, the arts and learning!   Our Favorite Thing About Our Neighborhood: 
 
 Is that we never stop discovering great places to explore! We love to be out and about at our library, our church, or participating in community events. The Kaneland community is so unique in that regard – so many opportunities to be had.           The McLachlan Family  DOWNERS GROVE – Nine years ago, Colleen and Brian McLachlan left successful careers in L.A. to move to Chicago’s western suburbs to open Doggie Depot Daycare in Downers Grove.  Their inspiration was their golden retriever Sadie whom they bought a week after their honeymoon.  Brian explained they both worked long hours and had to take Sadie to daycare “because she was nuts. That’s what started us down this path.”   Although they both had what they originally thought would be their “forever jobs,” Brian said, they soon realized that they weren’t doing what they would want to be doing for the next 30 years. “We decided to look into starting our own doggie day care,” Brian said. “It took us 2½ years to get up the courage to sell our house, quit our jobs and do it.” They have found themselves in the enviable position of being able to expand Doggie Depot twice.     They’ve also expanded their family.  They have two sons: Rory (1) and Parker (5). Furthermore, in addition to Sadie, they have Callie and Mack, who are also golden retrievers.   With their popular business comes a certain degree of fame. Brian said that they are frequently recognized around town. “We live and work and play right here in town and see a lot of people. I love seeing people out and about. It’s the type of business we’re in. We’re not taking care of people’s dry cleaning. We’re taking care of a beloved family member.” -Wendy Foster    Fun Facts:    Favorite Local Restaurant:?  Berto’s Deli and Pasta Shoppe.   On a Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: Playing in our backyard.   Best Family Vacation : It will be in 2016 when there will be 21 McLachlans renting a villa together in Costa Rica.     The Hurd Family  NAPERVILLE – Naperville has always been home to Janet Hurd – she grew up here, later moved to England, but came back to Naperville to be near family. She and her husband, Dave, have made Naperville their home for the past 17 years and are raising their three children, Vicki (15), Michael (13), and Zach (9) in their beautiful newly built home by McKeown Classic Homes, Inc. in the Green Acres subdivision. “We've been planning and building for 2 years, so we're very excited to be moving in now,” Janet shares.     When the family is not busy volunteering at Naperville Central High School; or on the St. Thomas the Apostle care pantry and gardening committee; or with the All Saints Catholic Academy education committee; or in the school library; or coaching Naperville Park District soccer teams, they can be found sideline, cheering the kids as they play soccer for Galaxy soccer club and the park district.     Back home, the Hurds are thoroughly enjoying the unique features of their new home, including the built-in aquarium and the large sliding service window and serving ledge which make entertaining in the rear covered veranda very convenient; plus the kids love showing off their smoothie bar! Janet worked closely with the design team at Liam Brex and may likely win Kitchen Gal of the Year with her own personal “mom cave,” perfectly situated behind a wood and wrought iron wine cellar door leading to the pantry, conveniently connected on the other side to her private space; thus, keeping her home organized and clutter free.     Janet loves raising her family in the town she grew up in and plans on creating hometown traditions for years to come.  –Kristen Kucharski    Fun Facts:    Our Family Motto Is:  If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right.   A Famous Family We are Most Like: 
 
 The Incredibles -Vicki can be Violet, Michael can be Dash and Zach can be 
 
 JackJack.   Most Memorable Family Vacation: 
 
 We just took an RV trip this summer out west to the Rockies with some good friends from England. 9 people, 1 RV, definitely memorable!   On a Sunday Night, You'll Find Us: 
 
 Frantically finishing homework so we can watch a movie; Sunday night has always been movie night in our house.   Do the Cubs or Sox Rule in Your House? Cubs 4, Sox 1 
     The Totsch Family  OSWEGO – Married for 24 years, Jim and Bev Totsch, who in their first ten years together moved nine times, are used to being movers and shakers. So when asked why they settled on Oswego and have stayed for over 13 years, Bev cites soccer and friendliness of the community.     “Jim was helping to run a Naperville-based club soccer program,” says Bev, “and in helping to plan a tournament, he got to know several really great people from the Oswego club. So when we decided to sell our house in Naperville, Oswego quickly jumped to the top of the list!”   And after living in Oswego for a year, the Totsches continued to lay down roots by starting their own business, Tranquility Builders, a general contractor specializing in home improvement projects, with a focus on customer service and good business practices.   Over the years, the Totsches  have also maintained their commitment to community soccer clubs, and as a result two of their four children have chosen soccer-related professions.       Elliot (who is the only Totsch child still at home) is the assistant varsity soccer coach for Oswego High School and son Sean, who currently lives in Rochester, NY, plays professional soccer for the Rochester Rhinos. They have another son, Ryan, who is a junior at Olivet Nazarene University as well as one daughter, Jen, who lives in Beecher with her husband, Zach.   The biggest key to their success?  Bev says they have always felt like a team because everyone has always had to pitch in and help around the house and with the business. “We are and always have been a very close family.”  -Tiffany Schultz    Fun Facts:    Favorite Local Establishment: Benny’s for brunch!   Most Memorable Family Vacation: 
 
 My (Bev) family’s lake house on Lake Upsilon near the Canadian border outside of St. Johns, North Dakota - it’s hands down our favorite place to get away.     On Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: 
 
 Usually sitting at the table on our deck, getting prepared and organized for the week to come.     A Famous Family We are Most Like: 
 
 We are more like every other family, than any famous family. We are really involved with our kids and we love our business, our clients and our community.     Why We Love Our Neighbors: 
 
 Because we work such long hours and one or both of us are usually at some sort of soccer event, our neighbors have really looked out for us…and they are always asking about the kids.  Great people, just like so many Oswego families we have the privilege of knowing.   
 Do You Know a Fabulous West Suburban Family? 
 
 If So, Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com

FABULOUS FAMILIES | October 2015

Chicago's west suburban communities have countless fabulous families, all making a difference in the world around them in their own...

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TARA ROZALOWSKY, NAPERVILLE 
 
 National Psoriasis Foundation Naperville Walk  Tara’s oldest child, Sidney, was born with severe plaque psoriasis, but it took over two years for her to be diagnosed properly. Sidney's skin is 20-30 percent covered in active lesions at any given time and she needs daily medication and modifications to keep the disease from advancing.    “When you have psoriasis, your immune system has gone haywire; it tells your body to make skin cells at five times the normal rate,” Tara says. “These cells have nowhere to go, so they pile up on the surface of the skin in thick patches that crack and bleed.”    Beyond the intense itching, the most difficult part can be the social element. “Though it’s an autoimmune disease and not contagious, people think that they’ll catch what you’ve got,” Tara adds. “They stare at you in public places, move away from you on the bus and ask you to leave public pools and hair salons.”    Tara is on a mission to find a cure and is leading the first annual Naperville Walk for a Cure for Psoriatic Disease on November  1. Join the walk or support Sidney via www.npf.donordrive.com/team/sidney    Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? 
 
 Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #HeroMomstoKnow

HERO SUBURBAN MOM | October 2015

TARA ROZALOWSKY, NAPERVILLE National Psoriasis Foundation Naperville Walk Tara’s oldest child, Sidney, was born with severe plaque...

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LOCKED IN A ROOM.... 
 
 The anticipation of being locked in a room may seem a bit frightening, but when the owner of THE ROOM in Lisle took our group of teenagers’ cell phones and then locked the phones in a trunk for an hour, it was downright terrifying! But, only until we were quickly distracted with trying to figure out how to get out of THE ROOM – which was locked - with us in it - for the next 60 minutes.  Heart-pounding and mind-testing games kept us pre-occupied as we worked together to search the room for clues that would help us find keys to unlock treasure chests, cabinets, desk drawers, etc… to find more riddles and clues which would ultimately lead us to discovering a four-digit code which we could use to unlock the door and escape THE ROOM!   With the recommended age being 14 and up, I wasn’t sure how my group of three middle schoolers, two high schoolers, one middle-aged mom, and one grandma would fare against the challenges; but, we diligently worked together  turning things upside down and inside out while crawling around the floor and reaching high on our tip-toes to find something -  anything - that would give us an additional clue or key to open another lock; bringing us one step closer to solving the key code to get us out.  If we got stumped, we had the chance to request three clues from THE ROOM. Upon request, a paper would magically appear, guiding us in a new direction.  The puzzles were engaging and kept us moving from corner to corner and back again to discuss what we had found. The excitement of discovering a new clue or the elusive lock that fit the key was felt by all. The energy in the room remained high as the time quickly ticked off our 60-minute clock and we were oh soooo close when the buzzer sounded!  Mark my words – we will be back.  
  
 Overview.... 
 
 THE ROOM is a live, interactive mystery escape challenge. It’s a great game for friends, family, couples, and co-workers who love solving mysteries or puzzles. A 60-minute, heart-pounding, mind-testing game of adventure all inside one room!  The Room Lisle 
 
 4910 Main Street 
 
 Lisle, IL 60532 
 
 www.theroomlisle.com  Hours: 
 
 4 to 11 p.m. Wed - Fri 
 
 11 a.m. to midnight Sat & Sun Price:  $28.50/person; 
 
 Check website and Facebook for coupons 
 about the writer 
 
 Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree.  She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children.  Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. #MomsLittleBlackBook #MBBPerfectForTweensTeens #MBBMiscellaneousFun

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | October 2015

LOCKED IN A ROOM.... The anticipation of being locked in a room may seem a bit frightening, but when the owner of THE ROOM in Lisle took...

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TRICK OR DRINK 
 
 Here’s a little known tidbit for you…way back in the day (about 2,000 years ago) All Hallows’ Eve was celebrated by placing food and wine on the front porch to ward off evil spirits. It’s a shame that tradition stopped because I’d have a new favorite holiday –- drinking your wine verses eating those horrible candy corn pellets.   So while important decisions have to be made like whether I dress up as Thor or Sharknado for Halloween I had an easy decision to open up a bottle of Jaffurs Syrah, 2009 from Santa Barbara County, California. This Syrah had aromas of big juicy blackberries, leather, olive, black pepper, finishing off with a little herb. With aromas that were layered as well as they were I was expecting some bold tannins but to my surprise, the wine’s flavors were rather soft with delicious black fruits and velvety tannins. Jaffurs added a little Petite Sirah in this vintage for structure and it showed. This bottle is a great fall wine!! It’s not only nice to add flavor to your chili but also delicious to drink alongside of it.  So do yourself a favor and pick up this excellently valued wine for around $30. Just don’t leave it on the porch or I’ll be paying you a visit. Happy Hallow-Wine! Sláinte!  ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles!  Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #TheChicagoWino #EricMcMillan #FeaturedBlog #October2015

THE CHICAGO WINO | October 2015

TRICK OR DRINK Here’s a little known tidbit for you…way back in the day (about 2,000 years ago) All Hallows’ Eve was celebrated by...

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UNION HOUSE AMERICAN KITCHEN 
 
 0s050 Winfield Road, Winfield 
 
 (630) 456-4188 
 
 www.unionhousekitchen.net 
 
 Owners: Stephany & Bart Johnson    EAT LOCAL, EAT FRESH, EAT SEASONAL 
 
 As Oktoberfest is underway and craft beers are brewing everywhere we wanted to find a place to enjoy good beer and good food.  What we found at the Union House American Kitchen was all of that and more!     Owners Stephany & Bart Johnson have created a unique Americana small plates dining experience.  Their motto:  eat local, eat fresh, eat seasonal.  Great beer and food is always in season here but are ever changing.  Both their beer and food menu changes depending on what they can source locally.     This warm aromatic eating house is located downtown Winfield a ½ block from the Metra. The atmosphere is relaxed and gives you time to savor each shared plate and beverage.   Not sure what beer to order?  The bartender will recommend or pair a beer with each bite.  Do not worry about the time here, clocks adorn the walls but you won’t find one that is correct!  As with traditional tapas these small plates are for sharing and come out as they are prepared– fresh and hot.     We started with the crispy beer battered pickles aside a creamy avocado buttermilk dipping sauce.  The Whiteford’s Buffalo shrimp are lightly fried tossed with aged clarified butter and cayenne sauce had just the right amount of heat which allowed the flavor to add the punch.  Then we were on to the mac and cheese.  The bacon is smoked in house and then added to a creamy cheddar mornay sauce, tomato concasse and topped with toasted panko.  The smell alone was intoxicating!  The smoked pulled pork sliders are a house favorite and we definitely agree.  Tender pork, not too much sweet heat BBQ sauce on a pretzel roll topped with coleslaw and pickle, accompanied by chips– all made in house.  For something a little lighter, try the seared sushi grade scallops on a bed of asparagus risotto.     Make sure to save some room for the cheesecake!  Stephany’s Mom, Diane Krapausky’s Oreo crusted cheesecake recipe is a decadent one.  Our generous slice came with Door County blueberries and we can’t stop thinking about it.  Whether you want savory or sweet, you will find it here.  This is a great west suburban find which has an extensive unique beer offering and a wonderful farm-to-table menu.    ABOUT THE CRITICS Stephanie & Tiffany Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on a farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine.

SAVORY & SWEET SISTERS | October 2015

UNION HOUSE AMERICAN KITCHEN 0s050 Winfield Road, Winfield (630) 456-4188 www.unionhousekitchen.net Owners: Stephany & Bart Johnson...

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CINDERELLA, CINDERELLA 
 
 I have this nagging feeling I’m late for something. Oh wait…is it fall already? Like Cinderella losing her slipper on the steps of the ball, my chariot’s arrived in the form of a pumpkin and I’M. NOT. READY.   While I do have a section of my still-very-messy basement that is devoted to my fall décor, it’s in that dark, sort of damp and well…spooky corner. Besides that, I can’t help but feel that the stuff I have brings new meaning to the phrase “OLD  standby’s.” How is it that my neighbors’ yards already look creatively creepy with goblins, ghouls, and ghosts of all shapes and sizes? And that friends of mine fill cornucopias with candy corn and somehow they don’t look cheesy? How do I get spider webs that scream spooktacular, not “I’m Mrs. Havisham and haven’t dusted in 20 years”?   So after I took a deep breath and realized that I do in fact have an “old friend” I can always count on in sticky situations like this, I decided to Keep Calm and Nona Jo’s On!   It’s so nice to step inside your favorite boutique and feel like you’ve just walked into your best friend’s house; cozy and homey, yet fun and fabulous. And at Nona Jo’s, as far as the eye can see, every nook and cranny, every corner and every crevice, is decked out in curiosities, trinkets, mementos and more. Nona Jo’s has always been my go-to for gifts, jewelry…or even that must-have scarf to keep the autumn chill at bay, but this trip was all about fanciful fall frill!  I simply love that there are little niches everywhere throughout the shop –   to get ideas, garner inspiration or just sit a spell and delight in the design (it’s quite obvious they have more than a few talented designers on staff). Speaking of the staff…they are an uber-friendly and helpful bunch, who aren’t clingy (this is getting to be a theme – ahem hello… best friend material!). So after taking a couple laps around the shop in order to absorb it all, I decided on some darling décor that helped me create a spectacularly spooky “barscape” in my kitchen. I really love that no matter my mood, they have items that span the spectrum. So whether I’m feeling whimsical or classic, fun or fantastic, sparkly or spooky…Nona Jo’s has it!   Witches and pumpkins and candy corn, oh my! The skulls and candles and ghosts caught my eye. The signs are hand painted and the fall florals made me elated….oh Nona Jo’s I can’t wait to come back and get Christmas décor acquainted!     OVERVIEW 
 
 Nona Jo’s is a family-run, fun-filled shop that offers exceptional service and an ever-changing mix of unique home accessories and fabulous gift-giving pieces. It was voted a 2015 Readers' Choice Excellence Award winner by Glancer readers and is located at 410 W. Fifth Ave., Naperville, www.nonajos.com, (630) 355-4488. 
  #TalesFromtheHighWire

TALES FROM THE HIGH WIRE | October 2015

CINDERELLA, CINDERELLA I have this nagging feeling I’m late for something. Oh wait…is it fall already? Like Cinderella losing her...

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A Few Treats Around Downers Grove 
 
 Ever wonder who painted the windows of local businesses downtown with Halloween themes?   Our town does.  On Saturday, October 24 swing on by 933A Curtiss Street from 9am to 12pm and pick up some paints from The Downtown Management Corporation and Rotary Club.  Just bring a food donation for F.I.S.H. Pantry in exchange for paints.  Remember to bring paint brushes, water, wipes (lots of them), and patience.  First come first serve so if you are eyeing that corner spot get there early!   Great things always seem to happen in twos downtown and Saturday, October 24 is no different.  The Helping Girls Navigate Adolescence Pancake Breakfast will be held from 8am-11am at Ballydoyle Restaurant and Bar.  The cost is $6 for adults, $3 for kids 12 and under, kids 2 and under eat free.  Proceeds from this event will support HGNA’s many efforts throughout the year including its annual Chick Chat workshop that serves more than 300 local 4th through 6th grade students.      Lincoln Center might be known to many as housing a preschool, basketball games and more, but come October it is transformed into The Lincoln Hotel.  Take a self-guided tour of this historic haunt on October 23 and 24 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm.  At only $8, what could go wrong? If looking for more scares, buy the “Fast Pass” through the park district and bypass long lines at two additional haunted houses:  Westmont and Woodridge.     If looking for a last minute pumpkins (like I always am), check out The Farm.  Located at 34 East 63rd Street, it is technically part of Westmont, but is a great place to pick up pumpkins that are equally as fresh as the other produce they supply.  Be sure to say “Hello” to Mr. Skeleton Bones from the Healy Family who typically is hanging out on the bench watching the action.   Finally, don’t forget about the North vs. South football game at the home of the Downers Grove South Mustangs on Friday, October 9 at 7:30pm. Go Mustangs!   Thanks for taking the time to read my take on the spooktacular happenings around town.  Gift ideas galore for the holidays in the next issue!       ABOUT THE WRITER 
 
 Anne Healy has lived in Downers Grove for the last eight years with her husband Tom and three children.  Beyond attempting to find the latest local fun spots for Glancer Magazine readers, you can find Anne coaching soccer, teaching Junior Achievement within District 58, or telling her three kids to “slow down”. Anne’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Hopes Front Door.  The organization helps countless individuals and their families in Downers Grove and neighboring communities by providing emergency assistance to those in need.  This summer, the organization sponsored a Backpack Drive for students in the area enabling hundreds of students to start this school year with supplies they need.  To learn more visit www.hopesfrontdoor.com.

MODERN HOUSEWIVES, Downers Grove, October 2015

A Few Treats Around Downers Grove Ever wonder who painted the windows of local businesses downtown with Halloween themes? Our town...

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Fall Festivities In Wheaton & Glen Ellyn 
 
 Fall is here and it is time to celebrate this Autumn season.  I have several ideas for you.  Let’s start at Cantigny Park.  October 10 is their “Fall Festival” from 10am – 4pm.  A $5.00 parking fee grants you in.  Some events charge a nominal fee.  Meander the aisles of homemade goods for purchase at the craft fair, hop on a hay ride ($1.00) and release your creativity at pumpkin decorating.  Kids will enjoy jumping in the inflatables, exploring the petting zoo ($1.00 animal feed cup), seeing jugglers, stilt walking & more.   Don’t forget their “Family Night Out” on October 16.  Parking is only $2 per car and this free event runs from 5:30-7:30pm.  Wear your costume on the 16th for trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating and family friendly activities inside the Visitor Center.   Now that you are feeling the change of seasons, call Leslie Gail for organizing and brightening up your living space.  Leslie is a professional organizer that can ease your life transitions. Transcend your home into a peaceful retreat.  Send her a note with what you have in mind & she’ll take it from there.  leslie@declareorder.com or visit her website at www.declareorder.com   Now that you are tucking into the ambiance of Fall, let’s explore your creative side at the Wheaton Public Library.  Two events to ponder:  the Writer’s Workshop on October 8th & November 12th from 7pm – 8:30 pm. Online signups via www.wheaton 
 
 library.org/calendar.  You can also call (630) 868-7520.  During this creative hour, you are provided different writing prompts and you will have an opportunity to create and share your thoughts with the group.   October 27th provides an additional writing activity.  Use the information above to register your free spot where you will read and receive constructive peer feedback on your work of poetry, song, screenplay or project.  Bring two hard copies to share & unleash your inner writer. The Fall weather has arrived and you are looking for an indoor activity. Bring your kids and check out Karate for Kids ATA Martial Arts Family Center at Danada Square East in Wheaton.  Having commitment issues? Try 5 classes & a uniform for $20 -- no pressure.  They have classes all week and Saturdays.  Kids can begin as early as three years of age. My 9 year old son has been attending since May of this year and has become more assertive and physically fit. Call (630) 681-0060 for more information & receive a class schedule.                 ABOUT THE WRITER 
 
 Kathy Ruggio lives in the Stonehedge neighborhood of Wheaton with husband Michael & 9 year old son Angelo.  She seeks Vitamin D via daily sun exposure, rare finds at local stores, shopping for Christmas year round & making unique jewelry for friends using Scrabble pieces.  Kathy’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Jolly Old Soles.    “Phyllis Parise founded this organization.  I see first-hand how she helps people locally and globally.  No one should be without shoes.  She sends them to the Philippines and right here to schools in Aurora. Learn more at www.jollyoldsoles.com

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Wheaton/Glen Ellyn, October 2015

Fall Festivities In Wheaton & Glen Ellyn Fall is here and it is time to celebrate this Autumn season. I have several ideas for you. ...

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Cozy Living In Naperville 
 
 Things taste better in small houses and it’s a good thibng because I have the smallest kitchen EVER. No Joke. It’s a galley kitchen in the starter house that has become, over the past 13 years, our probable forever home. The kitchen is roughly 9’ by 12’ and in it hangs a sign that reads “A messy kitchen is the sign of a happy life.”   But whether we’re entertaining two or 15 people, whether it’s 70 degrees out, or a game is on the television, that kitchen is crammed with people. It’s completely cliché, but it’s the heart and soul of our house and it is my happy place.   Stressed? Happy? Celebrating? Grieving? You’ll find me cooking or baking, for my people or whoever is in need of a little help or a celebratory baked ziti.   I’m also constantly adding to my culinary collection, and for that I often head to Sur La Table in downtown Naperville. Ahhhh, like a kid in a candy store! Oh, the kitchen I’d have if the money coffers were bottomless. I’d wander from Sur La Table to Williams-Sonoma and peruse beautiful cheese plates, European coffee presses (a different one for everyday) and a gadget for anything I’d ever need to do. For those one-of-a-kind pieces that make you ooo and ahh I’d head to the hidden gem that is Nona Jo’s on Mill Street. I could take the entire shop home with me. Then, I would glide around my culinary space like the Food Network cameras are on and I’m ready for my close-up.   But alas, the coffers are not bottomless. The starter house kitchen is now home to a family of five. And the tiny kitchen does not have room for gadgets and pretty dishes from around the world.  It does have room for a half-dozen family and friends on any given occasion. It does have room to make meals to soothe, comfort or cheer. It has room for conversation and sharing, and laughter and love.    I wouldn’t mind a few little upgrades, but my cozy kitchen does the job just fine. It may not be filled with all the latest and greatest, but it’s certainly full of the best of me.               ABOUT THE WRITER 
 
 Katie Manker of Naperville is a wife, small business owner, sister, daughter and friend, but first and foremost she’s Mom to her red-headed mafia. You’ll find her driving the activities bus by day, and laughing and enjoying her family and friends by night. Katie’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Sgt. Tommys Kids. Learn more at www.sgttommyskids.org

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Naperville, October 2015

Cozy Living In Naperville Things taste better in small houses and it’s a good thibng because I have the smallest kitchen EVER. No Joke....

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